Brexit prospect causing holiday spending cutbacks

With the Brexit vote on the horizon, a recent survey has revealed that British holidaymakers are concerned about the plummeting value of the Pound against the Euro, with nearly a quarter (22%) admitting it will impact their choice of holiday destination this year.

The research by Holiday Extras also indicated that uncertainty surrounding Britain’s future relationship with the EU is shifting our behaviour in holiday resorts, particularly among women.

Forty per cent of women polled said they will be taking cost-cutting measures this year compared to 28% of men. This includes limiting the amount they will be spending while on holiday (14%) and sticking to a pre-planned budget by purchasing Euros ahead of their holiday (26%).

Travellers are also expecting to cut back on food and drink while away this year, with a third (32%) declaring they will be avoiding the minibar and expensive hotel meals and 19% considering self-catering options, compared to just 7% who will be cutting down on shopping and souvenirs. With many elements of the holiday being cut back to save costs, it seems that making bookings in advance is not the preferred method with only one in ten (11 %) travellers even considering booking travel add-ons or tours in advance.

Looking on the brighter side for service providers on the Continent, the British sense of fair-play seems to be as strong as ever: the poll also revealed that we’re least likely to cut back on holiday tipping and service charges.